Coega Vulindlela Elevates Accommodation and Conferencing Services

The Coega Vulindlela Accommodation and Conference Centre offers a wide range of event solutions and value-added services.

Gqeberha, South Africa, 18 October 2023 – The award-winning Coega Vulindlela Accommodation and Conference Centre (the VACC), situated in the heart of Gqeberha in close proximity to Africa’s leading and preferred investment destination, the Coega Special Economic Zone (SEZ), and known for its world-class amenities, versatile event spaces, comfortable lodging and convenient location, welcomes new business and growth, notwithstanding a few challenging years for the hospitality sector, not just in South Africa, but the rest of the world.

The Coega VACC has adapted to the evolving needs of its valued clients, in terms of the increased demand for face-to-face and hybrid events following the COVID-19 Pandemic. The widely acclaimed 450-bed lodging capacity was expanded by an additional 100 beds, reflecting the Coega VACC’s unwavering commitment to continuous improvement, service quality and customer satisfaction.

Recent patrons who have enjoyed the hospitality of the Coega VACC included the Ministry of Transport; Kea Projects: Orion Rig Repair in the Coega Harbour; Siyawela Travel; National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa; Harvey Travel; Attwell Madala High School; Department of Sport, Arts and Culture; Athletics Transkei; Travel with Flair, Imbeko Travel; and Weidplas South Africa, amongst others, generating R20 million for the facility during the first half of the 2023/24 financial year.

Ms. Miliswa Filtane, Government Sales Manager at the Coega VACC, shared her pride regarding the achievements and level of service provided by the VACC: “We are immensely proud of what we have been able to achieve, which showcases our dedication to providing top-tier services and experiences to our clients. Our team has worked tirelessly to create memorable experiences and deliver exceptional services, resulting in an increased demand for our facilities and services.”

A few of the solutions offered by Coega VACC include conferencing, catering, gala events, and special occasions.

The VACC’s facilities include on-site catering, secure parking, 24-hour access-controlled security, modern equipment for high-tech presentations, on-site accommodation that includes bed and breakfast, long-term leasing, wheelchair accessibility, and shuttle services. The Centre also provides superb communal accommodation for non-local employees of businesses operating within the Coega SEZ and surrounds, as well as recreational amenities, including a soccer field, tennis court, squash court, and netball facilities. Furthermore, the versatile venue boasts conference facilities with the capacity to host up to 1000 delegates, rendering it the ideal choice for organising large-scale events, particularly for government departments.

Mr. Ridwaan Davids, Unit Head: Estate Management, emphasised: "Our steadfast commitment to excellence has consistently set us apart as leaders within the industry. From our elegantly designed and comfortable rooms to spacious and affordable conference facilities, the Coega VACC consistently raises the bar for accommodation and event hosting. Our goal is to ensure that the VACC maintains its position as the ultimate preference for discerning travellers and event organisers.”

The Coega VACC stands as a preeminent destination for travellers in search of the perfect blend of convenience and service, providing secure and comfortable lodging. Notable achievements for the VACC include the provincial award for Meetings, Exhibitions, and Special Events (MESE) in 2017, falling under the three-star category for Service Excellence. Additionally, the VACC was a provincial finalist for the two-star Guest House Service Excellence Award in the accommodation category.

"At the VACC, we have always championed the delivery of excellence, and this achievement reflects our dedication to providing the utmost experience for our esteemed guests. We eagerly anticipate continuing to establish the benchmark for hospitality in Gqeberha,” concluded Ridwaan.